Inspired by Legacy
John was greatly influenced by his grandfather, Roland René, a man with an admirable work ethic and profound integrity. Roland had a joy about him that lit up any room he walked into; the kind of gentleman people wanted to be around. He was most importantly a loving husband to his wife Céline, a loving father to his seven children, a musician, and a poet.
Honoring his legacy, John created Roland Architecture in 2020, inspired by his grandfather’s name. Today, John carries forth the values engrained from his grandfather through his own steadfast focus on an enjoyable and efficient process, building lasting relationships with his clients founded on honesty and trust, a few laughs, and perhaps a celebratory toast upon project completion.
An Intentional Life, Well Lived
1925
Roland René was born in 1925 in Fall River, Massachusetts to a French-Canadian family, and grew up in Val d’Or, Québec
1952
Roland grew his career with only a 3rd grade education, and years of experience working as a lumberjack in northern Québec and a gold miner in Val d’Or.
1958
Roland formed René Construction in Kingston, Ontario, Canada with his two brothers Léo and Gerard.
1965
Most importantly, Roland was a musician, a poet, a wonderful husband and a loving father to his seven children.
1968
Before passing in 1972 at the young age of 47, Roland lived a full life worth living.